The Nursing Baby - Q&A

Rebecca asks:
My baby, Caroline, is nine months old. She is our first child and has been sleeping with my husband and I since she was 6 months old. I brought her to bed with us then because she was still waking several times during the night to nurse and I wasn's sleeping much. I was about to go back to work and needed to sleep. Long story short - I couldn't leave her and now am home for good. Anyway, she still sleeps with us but wakes often throughout the night, and if she feels me move or turn over, it awakens her and she wants to nurse. I am so tired and my husband is too. I guess I am just wondering how long this will last. I don't necessarily want to get her out of our bed, but I miss the intimacy my husband and I used to share, just cuddling at night and talking about our day. Now I find myself being the militant mother, issuing commands not to move so we can all sleep. I am not myself. When Caroline has a good night's sleep, we all rejoice, but we haven't had one in a while! Any advice for me?

Dear Rebecca,

Have you tried a modified family bed with Caroline?

That is, you push her crib up to your bed or near it, and actually have her sleep there. Then any time you move her mattress won't shake and (maybe!) she won't wake. You can also purchase a "co sleeper" which attaches right to your bed. It's a great compromise when mom is a light sleeper or baby is (or both).

These tips are not intended to be medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have questions.

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